In a nutshell
This study investigated the effect of physical exercise in metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) colorectal cancer (mCRC). Researchers suggested that physical exercise increases patient quality of life.
Some background
The overall survival of patients with mCRC has improved during the last two decades. This was mainly due to new and improved treatments. However, the negative side effects of these treatments affect patients’ quality of life. Peripheral neuropathy (PN; pain and tingling in the nerves of the arms and legs) is a common side effect. Prior studies suggested that increased physical activity is associated with reduced CRC risk. However, the effects of physical activity in mCRC patients is not well known. The effect of physical activity on side effects like PN is also unclear.
Methods & findings
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of increased physical activity in patients with mCRC.
This study included 30 patients with stage 4 CRC. Patients were randomly assigned to 2 different groups. Group 1 (17 patients) participated in an 8-week supervised physical activity program (for 60 minutes 2 times a week). Group 2 (13) did not participate in the program, but physical activity was recommended to them. Endurance, strength and balance were evaluated before and after the program and after 4 weeks follow-up.
Patients from group 1 had improved strength and balance after the program. Moreover, PN remained stable in these patients. PN worsened during the follow up time in patients from group 2.
The bottom line
This study determined that physical activity improved strength and balance as well as PN in mCRC patients.
What’s next?
Talk to your physician before starting a physical exercise program.
Published By :
Supportive care in cancer : official journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
Date :
Feb 01, 2018
